What does it mean to be a Top 1% Diamond Plus Invisalign Provider?

Only practices that treat nearly 1000 patients annually with Invisalign are qualified to be a Top 1% Diamond Plus Invisalign provider. This distinction is important because it means we have more experience working with Invisalign than 99% of all other practitioners. You know you’re getting Invisalign treatment from orthodontists who have vast experience correcting bites and smiles with Invisalign. You’ll have confidence that we will design the perfect treatment for you AND that your results will be in line with your expectations of us.

Isn’t Invisalign expensive?

Cost is one area where MKY Orthodontics shines. Many providers upcharge for providing treatment with Invisalign, but we choose to offer this revolutionary solution to patients of all ages for the same cost as traditional braces. It is important to us that our patients have options and that their orthodontic journey fits in with the rythm of their family's lifestyle. Cost shouldn't stand in the way of a great smile. To learn more about our flexible financing for Invisalign at both our Mount Holly and Moorestown locations, visit our fiancing page here.

Can Invisalign work for my orthodontic needs?

Many people have been told by other providers that they aren’t a candidate for Invisalign. Because of our extensive experience treating thousands of patients and all sorts of cases with Invisalign, we’ll likely be able to find an Invisalign solution for you.

Will my teen or child actually wear their Invisalign clear aligners?

Maybe it seems like they wouldn’t, but in our experience treating hundreds of teens and children with Invisalign, we’ve found our young patients are often more compliant with their Invisalign protocol than their adult counterparts.

Does Invisalign treatment take longer than treatment with traditional braces?

For our patients who wear their Invisalign trays 20 to 22 hours per day as prescribed, their total treatment time is about as long as with traditional braces, and sometimes even faster.

What if my child starts treatment with Invisalign but wants to switch to traditional braces?

The majority of our young patients wear their aligners consistently and have fantastic outcomes. For the few kids or teens who have a little trouble wearing their aligners as directed, we give them a chance to switch to traditional braces at no additional cost during the first six months of treatment.

Do Invisalign clear aligners contain BPA?

The current research and testing by Align Technology, the creators of Invisalign, has found no latex, parabens, phthalates, glutaraldehyde, epoxy or Bisphenol A (BPA) present in Invisalign aligners or retainers. In addition, Invisalign aligners are approved by the FDA as Class II medical devices.

Will wearing Invisalign aligners affect my speech?

In the first couple of days after getting your aligners, while your tongue gets used to having them in your mouth, you may talk with a slight lisp. Don’t worry. This will go away very fast.

Can I chew gum while wearing my Invisalign aligners?

No, unfortunately. Gum sticks to the aligners. We recommend you remove the aligners before you have any meals or snacks, including chewing gum. If you think you might forget to put your aligners back in after chewing gum, you may choose to skip gum altogether during treatment.

How do I take care of my Invisalign aligners?

You should brush and rinse your aligners each time you brush your teeth. It’s critical that you brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in your mouth so that food particles don’t get trapped in your teeth, potentially causing tooth decay or other hygiene issues. Additionally, some foods may stain the aligners if not cleared from your teeth before you reinsert the aligners. Let’s keep those aligners clear!

I went on vacation and forgot to pack my aligners. Will they still fit when I get home?

It really depends on how long you go without wearing the aligners. If your trip lasted only a few days, your aligners should still fit but could possibly feel slightly uncomfortable. If you’ve been away longer, give us a call and we can talk about your unique situation and the next best steps to get you back on track as quickly as possible.

What orthodontic problems do braces correct?

Braces effectively resolve all kinds of issues, which is why they are one of our most popular treatment options. Below are a few common concerns we treat with braces: • Overcrowded or ill-spaced teeth. • Misaligned jaw. • Overbites and underbites. • Open bites. • Asymmetry of the smile. • Improper contact of the chewing surfaces of the teeth. • Issues with chewing and speech. • Reduced self-esteem due to a misaligned smile.

How long do I have to wear my braces?

Dr. Kaye and Dr. Yucha will determine the right duration of treatment for your specific situation because each person’s mouth responds differently to treatment. Depending on the type of correction, treatment with braces can take anywhere from six to 30 months. A standard treatment for braces in either our Mount Holly or Moorestown location typically takes about 22 months.

We won’t sugarcoat it: When you first get braces, you’ll feel mildly uncomfortable for a couple of days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, tongue, and mouth get used to the brackets and wires. You might live on soups, oatmeal, and applesauce for a few days. This is totally normal and won’t last too long, we promise. When you feel a pang, just picture how great it’s going to be when your treatment wraps up and you have a dazzling smile to show for it. When Dr. Kaye or Dr. Yucha periodically adjust the wires to guide your teeth, you’ll probably feel sore again for a few days. Soon you’ll be a pro at managing the short-lived discomfort, and most of the time, you’ll feel just fine.

How do I take care of my teeth while wearing braces?

Following the best practices below will ensure your treatment is as fast and effective as possible: • Brush your teeth after every meal and snack and floss at least once a day. Traditional floss can be difficult to use with braces, so check your local store for flossers designed to be used with braces. You’ll be happy you did. • To help prevent tooth decay and cavities, use toothpaste that contains fluoride or hydroxyapatite. Check with us or your family dentist to see if you’d benefit from a fluoride rinse. • During your treatment, avoid foods with a lot of sugar, like sweets or soda. Sugar fuels bad bacteria growth in your mouth, causing more plaque and possibly cavities. • Some foods can stick to or get caught in braces. Here are a few to avoid: sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, gummy candy, taffy), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes), or other foods that could possibly get stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, bagels, ribs, etc.). It won’t be long until you can go back to eating all the foods you love. • Schedule routine checkups with your family dentist every six months.

How should I take care of my retainer?

• Keep your retainer’s case with you all the time so that when you take out your retainer to eat, you can store it safely in its container. If it’s not in your mouth, it should be in the case so it doesn’t get lost or broken. Floss and brush your teeth and retainer before putting your retainer back in your mouth. • Keeping your retainer clean is an important part of good oral health. When you brush your teeth, gently brush your retainer with dish soap. You can also soak it in retainer brite as instructed by our orthodontists. Don’t put your retainer in boiling water or in the dishwasher, or else you’ll be coming in for a replacement.

How often should I brush my teeth when I have braces?

Braces can trap food easily, so you should brush your teeth at least three times a day to remove any bits of food caught between the braces or in your teeth. Flossing daily is critical to clean all the nooks and crannies where your brush can’t reach. The orthodontist will show you how to properly brush and floss once your braces are placed. A thorough brushing and flossing routine is the best way to prevent tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease. When your oral hygiene is up to snuff, your smile will shine and your teeth, gums, and mouth will stay healthy.

Do I still need to get regular dental checkups while wearing braces?

Do you ever! In fact, it's even more important that orthodontic patients visit their dentist regularly because braces make brushing and flossing trickier. Bits of food caught where your toothbrush can't reach cause bacteria to build up, leading to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist and orthodontist work together to help you keep your teeth clean and healthy while wearing braces.

Does wearing braces interfere with activities such as sports or playing an instrument?

Some people worry they’ll have to give up their favorite activities after they get their braces on. Rest assured, wearing braces won’t prevent you from participating in any of the activities you love. Because the position of the mouth and tongue affects how you play certain instruments, you may take a little time to adjust to playing with your braces on. Soon you’ll play as well as you did before. Braces won’t get in the way of playing sports, but we strongly recommend that you wear a mouthguard while playing contact sports to protect your mouth, braces, or any other appliance.

My teeth feel slightly loose. Is that a problem?

Not to worry—this sensation is completely normal and is expected. In order to change the alignment of your teeth in your mouth, your braces must first loosen your teeth before they can move them into the right position. Once your teeth have been repositioned, the surrounding tissue will retighten and will feel the way it usually does.

What orthodontic issues in children can orthodontists treat?

Orthodontic care straightens teeth, but planning for straight teeth is only the tip of the iceberg when assessing a child’s orthodontic health. Early interceptive treatment addresses alignment of the jaw, facial irregularities, and breathing pathways. Having an aligned jaw with straight teeth that fit together properly makes it much easier for your child to talk and eat. Corrected teeth are much easier to keep clean and develop much less wear and tear. A beautiful smile boosts children’s confidence and increases their self-esteem.

How does my child’s growth affect their orthodontic treatment?

Children’s rapid growth is the foundation of early interceptive treatment. Our doctors can take advantage of the fact that children’s jaws and teeth are already deep in the process of development: guide now rather than modify later. Orthodontic treatment is a great idea at any age, but starting care in childhood means children’s natural growth patterns support and speed up their treatment.

How often will I need to bring my child in for their appointments?

The precise number of appointments your child needs will depend on their custom treatment plan and the way their mouth responds to treatment. We typically schedule orthodontic appointments for children from once a month to once every three months. The number and frequency of appointments your child will need may also change throughout the treatment. At each appointment, Dr. Kaye or Dr. Yucha will check your child’s appliances and assess their treatment progress. Your child may also get their braces cleaned, have their teeth flossed, and get replacement wires or elastics. We always leave time for you and your child to ask questions and express concerns. We want to make sure the treatment is working for your family and that you have a clear understanding of your child’s plan and progress

Can my child continue playing their instrument or their favorite sports?

Without a doubt. Your child can absolutely play sports or an instrument even while they have braces. If a child plays an instrument with their mouth (like a trumpet or clarinet), they may take a few days to get used to playing while wearing their braces or Invisalign clear aligners. They’ll soon get the hang of it and won’t notice much of a difference. We recommend children wear mouthguards when playing sports to protect their appliances and their teeth from injuries. If your child does get a mouth injury while they have braces, call our office right away. We’ll help you make sure there’s no damage that will delay your child’s treatment.

What foods should my child avoid while getting orthodontic treatment?

Right after your child gets braces or after routine adjustments, their mouth will feel sensitive and they’ll probably want to eat soft foods for a few days. Be a hero and throw in some soft-serve ice cream with dinner. After a short while, your child can resume eating normally with a few exceptions. Have your child pass on popcorn and crunchy snacks like pretzels, chips, nuts, and crunchy veggies. They shouldn’t eat chewy and gummy candy, chewing gum, hard candy, or ice. These types of foods can get stuck in braces, damage the brackets or archwires, or pull a bracket off the tooth.

How does orthodontic treatment affect my child’s oral hygiene routine?

Food can easily get stuck in braces, so regular and thorough brushing is very important. Your child should brush their teeth at least three times a day, including before bed and after every meal. They should also floss at least once a day to clear food particles from hard-to-reach spots where a toothbrush can’t reach, which will prevent excessive tooth decay and maintain healthy gums. Flossing, which is already tricky for kids, is even more challenging with braces, so as a parent you’ll need to spend some time with them guiding the process and making sure they can floss well. A water flosser or orthodontic flossers designed especially for use with braces can make the whole process easier. Orthodontic appointments don’t replace routine dental cleanings. During orthodontic treatment, it’s essential you take your child to the dentist twice a year for a checkup and thorough cleaning.

I had straight teeth when I was younger and now I don’t. What happened?

Your jaw and mouth naturally change shape as you age. When your body gets older, your jawbone loses density, which can make your teeth shift. You might have thought there was nothing to be done, but now you can see you have many options to correct your smile.

Is there an age limit for getting orthodontic care?

Absolutely not! Teeth position can be adjusted at any age—even adults in their 60s and 70s have successful orthodontic treatment. We often meet patients who think they’ve missed their chance to have a great smile, and we’re here to tell you that’s not the case. You matter. Give this gift to yourself.

How is adult orthodontics different from orthodontics for children and teens?

The main difference is that adults’ jaws are fully grown. Adult treatment may take slightly longer than treatment for kids or teens with a similar problem because adults’ bones are mature and have a different density. It’s very common for orthodontists to coordinate with an adult’s dentist to reach their best outcome. Adults often choose Invisalign clear aligners to enhance their smiles since they feel less self-conscious with this nearly invisible treatment. We treat hundreds of adult patients every year with Invisalign, so we have the expertise to make your dream smile come true.

What are some common orthodontic problems for adults?

Overcrowding: Teeth overlap because the size and number of teeth exceed the capacity of the underlying bone structure. Overbite: The upper front teeth significantly overlap the bottom front teeth when the jaw is closed. Underbite: The lower jaw sits farther out than the upper jaw. Protruding teeth: Teeth stick out farther than looks natural and seamless. Open bite: The jaws are misaligned such that the upper and lower teeth don’t touch. Jaw pain: Pain caused by a bad bite, teeth grinding, stress, or mouth trauma. Abnormal tooth decay or wear and tear: All teeth wear naturally as we age, but poorly aligned teeth wear unevenly and more quickly than teeth that are straight. Gum disease: A chronic infection of the gums because of plaque buildup.

Should adults getting orthodontic treatment use a manual or electric toothbrush?

The best toothbrush is the one you happily use every day. When you have orthodontic appliances, it’s important you brush after every meal and snack so no food gets caught in your appliance. Be sure to change the toothbrush or brush head at the first sign of wear or at least every three months.

My teeth on top are pretty straight. Can I get braces or Invisalign for just my bottom teeth?

Orthodontic treatment is designed to ensure that all the teeth in your mouth work together well so they wear better over your lifetime. Teeth, like gears on a bicycle, must dovetail seamlessly to avoid excessive wear. That means an optimal orthodontic outcome most often requires treatment of both the top and bottom teeth, however we evaluate each case individually and sometimes just lower treatment can be performed.

I’m pregnant and want to get orthodontic treatment. Is that ok?

First of all, congratulations! Pregnancy brings on many changes in the body, of which some can affect the mouth. Soft tissues like gums can be more susceptible to infection. We will discuss how these risk factors can affect your orthodontic treatment and when the appropriate time to begin treatment is at your initial consultation.

March 30, 2026

When it comes to achieving a straighter, healthier smile, many people find themselves pondering the orthodontist vs dentist debate. Both professionals play vital roles in oral health, but understanding the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist can help you make an informed decision about who straightens teeth most effectively. At MKY Orthodontics, we often hear questions like, "Can my general dentist handle braces or Invisalign?" or "What's the real benefit of seeing an orthodontist?" In this blog, we'll explore these topics in depth, highlighting why specialized care matters for your family's dental journey.

Whether you're a parent researching options for your child's early orthodontic needs or an adult seeking discreet alignment solutions, knowing when to see an orthodontist versus a dentist can lead to better outcomes. We'll break down their roles, training, services, and more, while integrating insights tailored to real-life scenarios. By the end, you'll have a clear path forward for that perfect smile.

Understanding the Basics: What Is a Dentist?

A dentist, often referred to as a general dentist, is your go-to professional for overall oral health maintenance. Think of them as the primary care physicians for your mouth; they handle a broad spectrum of preventive and restorative treatments to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Dentists complete four years of dental school after earning an undergraduate degree, focusing on diagnosing and treating common dental issues. Their expertise includes:

Routine cleanings and check-ups to prevent cavities and gum disease.
Fillings, crowns, and root canals for repairing damaged teeth.
Extractions for problematic teeth, such as wisdom teeth.
Cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening or veneers to enhance appearance.

In the orthodontist vs dentist comparison, dentists excel at general care that addresses immediate concerns. For instance, if you have a toothache or need a filling, your dentist is the first line of defense. They also perform screenings for oral cancer and educate patients on daily hygiene practices, like proper brushing and flossing techniques.

However, when it comes to complex alignment issues, a dentist's training is more generalized. While some dentists may offer basic orthodontic services, such as simple aligners for minor corrections, they don't specialize in the intricate science of tooth movement. This is where the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist becomes most apparent. Dentists manage the "what" of dental health, but orthodontists dive deep into the "how" of alignment.

What Is an Orthodontist? Specialists in Alignment and Bite Correction

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses exclusively on straightening teeth, correcting bites, and aligning jaws. All orthodontists are dentists first, but they undergo additional rigorous training to become experts in orthodontics. After completing dental school, orthodontists spend two to three more years in a specialized residency program, where they learn advanced techniques for diagnosing and treating malocclusions (misaligned bites) and other orthodontic conditions.

This extra education, often totaling over 10,000 hours of specialized practice, equips orthodontists to handle cases that go beyond basic dental care. They use tools like braces and clear aligners to gradually shift teeth into optimal positions, improving not just aesthetics but also function and long-term health. Key responsibilities of an orthodontist include:

Evaluating jaw development and tooth alignment through X-rays, 3D scans, and impressions.
Creating personalized treatment plans for issues like overbites, underbites, crossbites, crowded teeth, or gaps.
Monitoring progress over months or years to ensure safe, effective results.
Addressing related concerns, such as speech impediments or chewing difficulties caused by misalignment.

In the dentist vs orthodontist for Invisalign or braces discussion, orthodontists are the clear choice for comprehensive care. Their specialized knowledge ensures treatments are tailored to individual needs, reducing risks like uneven wear on teeth or jaw strain.

Key Differences Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist

The orthodontist vs dentist distinction boils down to scope, training, and expertise. While both are essential for oral health, their paths diverge significantly after dental school.

Education and Training

Dentists graduate from dental school with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree, preparing them for general practice. Orthodontists build on this foundation with an accredited orthodontic residency, involving thousands of hours of hands-on training in biomechanics, facial growth, and appliance design. This makes orthodontists uniquely qualified to predict how treatments will affect your smile over time.

Services Provided

Dentists focus on preventive and restorative care, such as cleanings, fillings, and extractions. Orthodontists specialize in corrective treatments like braces and Invisalign, which require precise planning to move teeth safely. For example, while a dentist might spot misalignment during a check-up, an orthodontist designs the step-by-step plan to fix it.

When to Choose One Over the Other

If your concern is general maintenance or acute issues like pain or decay, see a dentist. But for straightening teeth or bite corrections, consult an orthodontist. Misalignment can lead to complications like TMJ disorders or uneven tooth wear, which orthodontists are trained to prevent.

Why Choose an Orthodontist for Straightening Your Teeth?

When asking "who should straighten your teeth," the answer is often an orthodontist, especially for optimal results. Their specialization leads to more efficient treatments, fewer complications, and enhanced durability.

Expertise in Complex Cases

Orthodontists handle everything from simple spacing issues to severe malocclusions. Their training allows them to use advanced diagnostics, like digital scanning, to create precise plans. This expertise is crucial for children and teens, where early intervention can guide jaw growth and prevent future problems.

Better Long-Term Oral Health

Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and enamel wear. Orthodontic treatment also improves bite function, aiding digestion and speech. Studies show that properly aligned teeth contribute to overall well-being, boosting confidence and self-esteem, particularly in growing children.

Advanced Technology and Options

Orthodontists stay at the forefront of innovations, offering options like clear aligners that are discreet and comfortable. This contrasts with general dentists, who may not have the same depth of experience with these tools.

Orthodontic Services at MKY Orthodontics: Tailored for Your Family

At MKY Orthodontics, we align our services with your family's unique needs, with an emphasis on modern, kind, and lifestyle-focused care. As a Top 1% Diamond Plus Invisalign Provider, we specialize in treatments that fit seamlessly into busy lives.

Invisalign: Discreet and Effective

Our flagship service, Invisalign, uses clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth without the visibility of traditional braces. Ideal for teens and adults, it's customizable and allows for easy eating and cleaning. We integrate the latest technology for precise results, ensuring comfort and efficiency.

Traditional Braces: Reliable for All Ages

For more complex cases, we offer traditional braces, which provide strong, controlled movement. These are particularly effective for children, addressing early orthodontic needs like crowded teeth or bite issues.

Early Orthodontics for Children

We recommend evaluations around age 7 to catch developing problems early, aligning with our family-centered approach. This preventive care can simplify future treatments and promote healthy jaw development.

Our services are designed with flexibility in mind, including financing options and transparent communication to make orthodontics accessible. We focus solely on these specialized treatments, ensuring every patient receives expert attention.

Common Misconceptions About Orthodontist vs Dentist

Many believe dentists can handle all orthodontic needs, but this isn't always true. While some

Dentists offer basic aligners; complex cases require an orthodontist's precision to avoid suboptimal results.

Another myth: Orthodontic treatment is only for kids. Adults make up a growing portion of our patients, benefiting from discreet options like Invisalign.

Finally, cost is often overestimated. With financing and insurance, specialized care can be comparable to general dental services, offering better value through lasting outcomes.

Trust the Specialists for a Lifetime of Smiles

In the orthodontist vs dentist debate, both are invaluable, but when it comes to who should straighten your teeth, orthodontists bring unmatched expertise. Their advanced training ensures safe, effective alignment that enhances health and confidence. At MKY Orthodontics, our orthodontists, led by Dr. Richard Kaye and Dr. Benjamin Yucha, both Top 1% Diamond Plus Invisalign Providers, draw on decades of experience to deliver personalized care. We prioritize family dynamics, using cutting-edge technology to create smiles that fit your life. Whether through Invisalign or braces, our goal is a natural, flowing transformation that lasts.

Ready to start? Schedule a complimentary smile assessment today and experience the MKY difference.

FAQs

What is the main difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?

The key difference between an orthodontist and a dentist lies in specialization. Dentists handle general oral health, while orthodontists focus on aligning teeth and jaws with additional years of training.

Can a dentist straighten my teeth?

Some dentists offer basic straightening, but for complex issues, an orthodontist is better equipped to ensure safe, long-term results.

When should I see an orthodontist instead of a dentist?

See an orthodontist for misalignment, bite problems, or straightening needs. For routine cleanings or fillings, visit your dentist.

What is an orthodontist qualified to do that a dentist isn't?

Orthodontists are experts in orthodontic appliances like braces and Invisalign, with specialized knowledge in jaw development and tooth movement.

Is Invisalign only available through orthodontists?

Some dentists provide it, and orthodontists have more experience, leading to better customization and outcomes.

How does early orthodontic care benefit children?

Early evaluations can guide jaw growth, prevent severe issues, and make future treatments simpler and shorter.

Orthodontist vs. Dentist: Who Should Straighten Your Teeth?